Former NASCAR Driver Greg Biffle, Family Killed in Fatal Jet Crash

Crash Near Statesville Regional Airport

A Cessna C550 business jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina on Thursday morning, killing all seven people on board. The aircraft departed around 10:06 a.m. and was airborne only briefly before attempting to return to the airport. It went down near the east end of the runway and erupted into a large fire.

Authorities said weather conditions included drizzle and low clouds, though the cause of the crash remains unknown. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation, with support from the Federal Aviation Administration. The airport was closed as crews cleared debris from the runway.

Victims Identified

Among those killed was former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, 55, along with his wife Cristina and their two children, Emma, 14, and Ryder, 5. The other victims were Dennis Dutton, his son Jack, and Craig Wadsworth.

The aircraft was registered to a company associated with Biffle. FAA records show he was rated to fly helicopters as well as single and multi engine airplanes, though officials have not confirmed whether he was piloting the jet at the time.

Witnesses and Immediate Aftermath

Witnesses near the airport described seeing the jet flying unusually low before the crash. Golfers at a nearby course dropped to the ground as the aircraft passed overhead, with debris later scattered across part of the course. Airport officials said the jet was already engulfed in flames when emergency crews arrived.

The Cessna C550, built in 1981, is a twin engine midsize business jet commonly used for corporate and private travel. Aviation experts noted it has a strong safety reputation when properly operated and maintained.

A Career Defined by Racing and Service

Biffle spent nearly two decades competing at NASCAR’s highest levels and was named one of the organization’s 75 Greatest Drivers. He won championships in the Truck Series in 2000 and the Xfinity Series in 2002, becoming the first driver to claim titles in both. Over his career, he earned 54 wins across NASCAR’s three national series, including 19 at the Cup Series level.